19 February 2011

St. Matthew’s 5 Bethwin A 0     Venue: Brockwell Park     (KO Cup semi-final)

With the cup semi-final upon us, all eyes were on the weather report and the Brockwell Park pitch, especially after the abandonment of all fixtures at Tooting Bec. After a quick pitch inspection, though, we were ready to go against a Bethwin team who were only one of two teams to have beaten us this season. Our pre-match preparations didn’t get off to the best of starts when our goalkeeper turned up with a swollen hand, unable to take part. With a stand in goalie we knew we had to keep it tight at the back and we did just that, allowing Bethwin only one real shot on target during the whole match. Through hard work, stern defending and quick closing down, we carved open a few good chances early on and soon went 1-0 up. Despite difficult weather conditions to contend with we kept the ball well, spreading it around nicely in the opposition’s half. By half time we were 3-0 up and looking very composed. The second half was more of the same and after 10 minutes we eventually netted a fourth, with a fifth soon after. After some scrappy matches in recent weeks, the boys showed some great composure, always looking to play the ball out of trouble and working hard for one another. A great result and, more importantly, the best team performance of the season, with everyone putting their all into the tie and playing some beautiful football along the way. Well done boys – a well-deserved big day out to look forward to in the spring.
James Alexander